Accident Overview
On July 10, 2021, about 0730 mountain standard time, a Beech A36TC, registration N222HC, was substantially damaged during a takeoff accident at Chandler, Arizona. One passenger sustained serious injuries, while the pilot and two passengers sustained minor injuries. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.
Pilot's Preflight and Takeoff
The pilot reported that before takeoff, he calculated the takeoff weight at 3,794 pounds and the center of gravity (CG) at the forward edge of the CG envelope. The maximum certified gross weight for the airplane was 3,833 pounds. He also calculated the takeoff distance to clear a 50-foot obstacle as about 3,000 feet for an outside temperature of 90°F. The runway length was 4,400 feet.
The preflight inspection, engine start, taxi, and pretakeoff checks were normal. During takeoff, engine sound and indications were normal, but the pilot noticed that the airplane’s acceleration was “slightly slower than expected” and the ground roll was “longer than predicted.” He did not abort the takeoff because, given the high outside air temperature, he did not consider this indicative of a problem. He reported that rotation speed was within the normal range.
Post-Liftoff and Abort
After liftoff, the pilot lowered the nose to accelerate. Following landing gear retraction, the airplane did not accelerate or climb; airspeed decreased, and the stall warning activated intermittently. As the airplane neared the end of the runway, the pilot aborted the takeoff. The airplane landed just beyond the departure end of the runway, into dirt. It slid on its belly and collided with an airport fence. The wings were substantially damaged, and a postimpact fire occurred.
Postaccident Examination
Postaccident examination revealed extensive thermal damage throughout the engine. All engine accessories and the propeller hub remained attached. Cylinder compression and suction were obtained on all six cylinders, and valve rocker arms moved equally when the crankshaft was rotated. The turbocharger waste gate was attached with the butterfly valve open; the valve operated normally when actuated. The turbine and compressor impellers spun freely with slight lateral play and rub marks on the housing. No preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions were found that would have precluded normal operation.